Makromolekulides

Makromolekulides are a class of synthetic organic compounds that share structural similarities with naturally occurring macrolides but are artificially designed. Macrolides are characterized by a large macrocyclic lactone ring, typically containing 12 or more atoms, to which one or more deoxy sugar molecules are attached. Makromolekulides retain this large ring structure but may incorporate modified or entirely synthetic sugar moieties, or even non-sugar substituents, to alter their properties. The synthesis of makromolekulides often involves complex multi-step organic chemistry, aiming to create novel molecules with specific biological activities or material properties. Researchers in medicinal chemistry, for instance, design makromolekulides to explore new antibiotic or anticancer agents, seeking to overcome resistance mechanisms or improve pharmacokinetic profiles of existing macrolide drugs. In materials science, the incorporation of makromolekulide structures into polymers can impart unique characteristics such as biodegradability or self-assembly capabilities. The term "makromolekulides" emphasizes their synthetic origin and intentional design, distinguishing them from their naturally derived counterparts. Their study falls within the broader fields of supramolecular chemistry and chemical biology.